Digital transformation in business can help you reach more customers, improve workflows, and increase your existing technology presence. It's a smart way to attract new customers who see your business as innovative and able to adapt to changing trends. Emerging technologies like 3D printing, cryptocurrencies, and 5G cellular services can have a huge impact on the way you do business. However, the problem with any transformation is the need to implement this new technology carefully and precisely. It's important to analyze the technology itself, prepare your business for the transformation, implement the implementations, then assess the impact and adjust the technology as needed. By following these important steps in digital transformation, you can be sure that when you introduce new technologies, you will help your business grow and evolve. Here's how to make sure your digital transformation follows a defined procedure and doesn't disrupt the flow of commerce.
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1. study the field
The crucial first step in digital transformation is learning about emerging technology trends. It can take time to study the markets and determine which innovations are truly valid and mature enough to be implemented in your business. For example, 5G technology has always been on the horizon for many years, but now it is making legitimate inroads in big cities and is much more viable. 3D printing is another emerging technology that seems always ready for mass adoption, but from a design and manufacturing standpoint, it is more than ready to be implemented in certain market segments such as Automotive and Product Design. Other technological innovations may not be ready and it is important to study them as well. Virtual reality gaming is a good example. It peaked in 2018, but in 2019, it had to slide to make room for big companies like Samsung, who decided not to offer VR headsets. Once you're aware of all the changes and fluctuations, it's also important to know if the technology will last into the future or if it's just a trend to follow. An example of this is wearable technology. Companies like Apple and Google are probably working on wearable glasses, and Amazon has already released the Echo glasses. However, this was a failed experience a few years ago when Google launched Google Glass. (The company has since created a new version intended more for industrial use.)
2. Prepare your business
The second step in digital transformation is preparing your own internal business processes and workflows. With printers and copiers, for example, it is important to determine if your process will work with transformation technologies, such as 5G or Wi-Fi. 6. This can go beyond the early update of the drivers and install new firmware. This may involve workflow adjustment, as more devices will be able to connect and print, or due to speed improvements, employees will be more likely to use their devices and will need to improve their replenishment services. This may mean that you will have to review your security platform and make sure that new technology also does not expose your business to new hacking methods. You may need to evaluate almost every business process, depending on the technology you want to implement to make sure you know how it affects your networks, servers, and workstations.
3. Implement technology with care
After reviewing technology trends and preparing your business process, the next step is to implement the technology. This may involve pilot testing, limited testing, or a radical overhaul of the devices you use in a business. However, any implementation related to disruptive technologies such as augmented reality, 5G data service, 3D printing and other innovations must be careful and structured: the technology is emerging and new, and yet the business process may not be ready for new technology. . It is advisable to implement the technology if it will have an impact on your business, but it must be implemented to avoid additional problems. An example here is with the Bitcoin cryptocurrency at a financial services company. Yes, the emerging technology has business benefits and could be a way to attract a new type of customer, but the Bitcoin currency is still relatively new and unproven. It's a good idea to roll out the new coin on a limited and cautious basis rather than replace it entirely.
4. Evaluate the results.
It goes without saying (almost) that any implementation of new technology should involve ongoing, structured, and intentional evaluation of the new technology. This allows any business to determine whether new technology is making a difference, reducing costs and improving workflows, but also whether further adjustments are needed in the business and its process to make the technology even more viable. And more profitable. It is also a crucial step in determining if the transformation is really working or if it is better to disconnect and start over. An example is Wi-Fi 6, a transformational technology because it is faster and more reliable, and also because it is now officially certified. Wi-Fi is obviously incredibly popular and widespread in businesses. So if you decide to implement Wi-Fi 6 by upgrading devices like laptops and printers, and by purchasing new Wi-Fi 6-enabled routers and access points, it's critical to determine whether these upgrades help or hinder your business. This may require upgrading additional equipment, adding new drivers to a standard workstation, training employees on new applications or services, and even changing the workflow of the business. company as needed. Following these four main steps will help every business get the most out of processing technology. There is a great opportunity to influence your business, but also create chaos and confusion with users. By studying the technology and making sure it's mature and viable, and then implementing it so the disruptive technology itself doesn't impede your business, you can focus on the benefits, not the challenges.